3 tips as you approach graduation

Choose a job that is right for you, your skill set, your passion and your values. You may want to speak with an RCN careers coach to explore a potential role together, and whether it fits in with your life, your values and strengths.

Also identify the level and depth of support you will be offered if you are successful in securing a job and what support they can offer with your transition from student to newly qualified nurse.

2. Arrange an informal visit

You may have been lucky enough to have secured a placement in the environment you are aspiring to work within. If not, arrange an informal visit to a workplace before you apply for posts there. Not only can it make you stand out and look keen, but it's a perfect opportunity to get a real feel for the work culture and environment.

3. Research your employers

Always research your employers, their organisational values or visions. These will give you vital clues as to what an employer is looking for in a candidate, and likely to reflect the framework for the recruitment process. It’s also likely that they will be involved in projects, pilots, initiatives, etc. Asking questions about these during informal visits, applications and interviews could win you brownie points.

When you are ready to start applying for jobs, check the online RCN career resources. Visit www.rcn.org.uk/careers where you will find designated student areas with sample CVs and supporting statements. If you wish to speak with a career coach, please contact RCN Direct on 0345 772 6100.

Do you have any money concerns?

It is important that you focus on your studies on this final stretch before you finish your course. That can be really difficult if you are concerned about money.

Have you applied to the hardship fund or other University charitable payments? As a final year student, your university will be vested in you successfully getting to the end of your course. They understand that working to get extra income may not be possible during this period and they are likely to be more sympathetic to an application for financial support.

If you are so concerned about your finances that you are unable to focus on your studies or placement, don’t bottle it up, it might be time to speak to a specialist money adviser.

The RCN Welfare Service offers specialist debt and money advice to members. Call RCND on 0345 772 6100 and just ask to speak to a RCN welfare adviser.